Building relationships for shared cases between state and tribal vocational rehabilitation programs

Background: Since their inception, State Vocational Rehabilitation (SVR) and American Indian Vocational Rehabilitation Services (AIVRS) have played pivotal roles in assisting millions of individuals with disabilities in securing and sustaining competitive integrated employment. Objective: This article aims to inform readers about the historical context and key issues concerning AIVRS while proposing strategies for enhanced collaboration between AIVRS and SVR programs in joint service provision. Methods: While published research on providing VR services to American Indians or Alaska Natives (AI/AN) is limited, much of the information in this article is based on the extensive knowledge of the authors, who collectively possess decades of experience in SVR and AIVRS. Results: Key topics include (a) challenges encountered by the AI/AN population; (b) prevailing attitudes toward disability and employment within AI/AN communities; (c) a comparative overview of the histories and operations of SVR and AIVRS; (d) supporters of and advocates for AIVRS projects; (e) considerations when sharing cases; and (f) recommendations for fostering cooperative practices that benefit AI/AN communities. Conclusion: By integrating culturally appropriate services, including holistic traditional healing, AIVRS projects and SVR agencies can offer complementary support while honoring the cultural heritage of AI/AN clients.